Samuel Omang
The long-running leadership tussle within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) reached a dramatic climax on Wednesday as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officially recognised the faction led by former Senate President, David Mark.
The recognition puts to rest months of uncertainty and internal wrangling that had stalled the party’s operations. It also positions the ADC for a major comeback as preparations heat up for the 2027 general elections.
Alongside Mark, INEC confirmed several other high-profile politicians as principal officers of the party. They include Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola – National Secretary; Dr. Ibrahim Mani – National Treasurer; Akibu Dalhatu – National Financial Secretary and Prof. Oserheimen Aigberaodion Osunbor – National Legal Adviser.
With INEC’s nod, the ADC is expected to immediately embark on a nationwide reconciliation and mobilisation drive, reaching out to aggrieved members and strengthening grassroots structures.
Political analysts say the emergence of Mark, a seasoned politician and two-term Senate President, could rebrand the ADC as a formidable platform for Nigerians dissatisfied with the dominance of the APC and PDP.
The ADC has long struggled to assert itself in Nigeria’s political landscape, often hampered by internal divisions and limited visibility. But with heavyweights like Aregbesola and Osunbor now in its leadership, the party is seen as better positioned to mount a credible challenge in the coming elections.
For David Mark, the INEC recognition marks not just a personal political resurrection, but also a chance to rally a third-force movement that could shake up Nigeria’s political equation ahead of 2027.